Seen, Heard, and Paid

1. Recognize and Overcome Marginalization in the Workplace

"Inclusion only works if everyone buys in."

Identify marginalization: Be aware of subtle forms of exclusion, such as being left out of important meetings, denied access to resources, or consistently assigned less prestigious tasks. Marginalization can affect various groups, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities.

Take action: Document instances of marginalization and their impact on your work. Seek allies within your organization, such as employee resource groups or trusted colleagues. When appropriate, bring concerns to your manager or HR, focusing on how addressing these issues can benefit the team and organization as a whole.

• Signs of marginalization:
  • Exclusion from key decision-making processes
  • Lack of access to career-advancing opportunities
  • Microaggressions or dismissive behavior from colleagues
  • Unequal distribution of resources or support

2. Master the Art of Being Seen, Heard, and Valued

"You have to be twice as good to get half as far as others."

Visibility is key: Actively seek opportunities to showcase your skills and contributions. Regularly update your manager and team on your progress and achievements. Volunteer for high-visibility projects that align with your strengths and career goals.

Strategic communication: Learn to articulate your ideas clearly and confidently in meetings and written communications. Develop a personal brand that highlights your unique strengths and expertise. Build relationships across the organization to increase your visibility and influence.

• Tactics for increasing visibility:
  • Share regular progress updates with your manager
  • Volunteer for cross-functional projects
  • Present your work at team or company-wide meetings
  • Contribute to company newsletters or internal communications

3. Balance Office Housework with Career-Advancing Glamour Work

"Office housework will never get you ahead."

Identify work types: Recognize the difference between office housework (administrative tasks, note-taking, organizing events) and glamour work (high-profile projects, client presentations, strategic initiatives). Both are necessary, but glamour work is more likely to lead to career advancement.

Seek balance: While it's important to be a team player, ensure you're not disproportionately burdened with office housework. Actively seek out glamour work opportunities and negotiate with your manager to balance your workload. Document your contributions to both types of work to demonstrate your value and versatility.

• Strategies for balancing work:
  • Keep track of your office housework contributions
  • Proactively volunteer for glamour work opportunities
  • Negotiate with your manager for a fair distribution of tasks
  • Highlight how your office housework supports team success

4. Cultivate Superstar Status Through Unique Contributions

"Figure out your unique contribution."

Identify your strengths: Analyze your skills, experiences, and interests to determine what unique value you bring to your role and organization. Focus on developing and showcasing these strengths to differentiate yourself from colleagues.

Become indispensable: Take on responsibilities or projects that align with your unique skills and are critical to the team's success. Continuously learn and adapt to stay ahead of industry trends and organizational needs. Share your knowledge and expertise with others to establish yourself as a go-to resource.

• Ways to cultivate superstar status:
  • Develop a niche expertise within your field
  • Take on challenging projects that showcase your skills
  • Mentor or train colleagues in your area of expertise
  • Contribute innovative ideas to improve processes or outcomes

5. Effectively Manage Up and Communicate with Your Boss

"Be a problem solver, not a problem complainer."

Understand your manager's priorities: Take time to learn your boss's goals, communication style, and preferred work methods. Align your work and communication to support their objectives and make their job easier.

Proactive communication: Schedule regular check-ins with your manager to discuss progress, challenges, and ideas. Come prepared with solutions to problems, not just complaints. Demonstrate your ability to think strategically and contribute to the team's overall success.

• Tips for managing up:
  • Schedule regular one-on-one meetings
  • Provide concise, actionable updates on your work
  • Anticipate potential issues and propose solutions
  • Ask for feedback and guidance on your career development

6. Prioritize Meaningful Work and Avoid Productivity Traps

"Don't fall for productivity porn."

Focus on impact: Prioritize tasks and projects that align with your goals and contribute significantly to your team's objectives. Avoid getting caught up in busy work or productivity hacks that don't lead to meaningful outcomes.

Manage your energy: Recognize your most productive hours and schedule important work during these times. Take regular breaks to maintain focus and creativity. Learn to say no to low-value tasks that don't contribute to your core responsibilities or career growth.

• Productivity strategies:
  • Use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks
  • Implement time-blocking techniques
  • Regularly review and adjust your priorities
  • Set clear boundaries around your work hours and commitments

7. Set Boundaries and Thrive in Remote Work Environments

"Set and protect your boundaries."

Establish clear work-life boundaries: Define your work hours and communicate them to your team. Create a dedicated workspace and develop routines that signal the start and end of your workday.

Maintain visibility: Proactively communicate your progress and availability to your team. Use video calls and collaborative tools to stay connected and engaged. Be intentional about building relationships with colleagues in a virtual environment.

• Remote work best practices:
  • Set up a comfortable, professional home office space
  • Overcommunicate your availability and progress
  • Schedule regular virtual coffee chats with colleagues
  • Take advantage of flexible hours to optimize your productivity

8. Track Your Achievements and Advocate for Fair Compensation

"Data is power, and power is money."

Document your accomplishments: Maintain a detailed record of your achievements, projects completed, and positive feedback received. Quantify your contributions whenever possible, using metrics that demonstrate your impact on the organization.

Research industry standards: Stay informed about salary ranges and compensation trends in your field. Use this information, along with your documented accomplishments, to negotiate fair compensation during performance reviews or when considering new opportunities.

• Compensation advocacy strategies:
  • Keep a "brag file" of your accomplishments and positive feedback
  • Research salary data for your role and industry
  • Practice your negotiation skills with trusted mentors or peers
  • Consider total compensation, including benefits and growth opportunities

9. Navigate Workplace Challenges and Know When to Move On

"Your job is not your friend."

Assess your situation: Regularly evaluate your job satisfaction, growth opportunities, and alignment with your career goals. Recognize when workplace challenges are surmountable and when they may be indicative of a toxic environment or systemic issues.

Plan your exit strategy: If you decide it's time to move on, do so strategically. Update your résumé, expand your professional network, and begin exploring new opportunities while still employed. Leave on good terms, maintaining professional relationships that may benefit you in the future.

• Signs it may be time to move on:
  • Lack of growth opportunities or career advancement
  • Persistent toxic work environment or unaddressed discrimination
  • Misalignment between your values and the company culture
  • Chronic stress or negative impact on your mental health

Last updated: November 22, 2024